Adopt-A-RoadCitizens, businesses and community groups are encouraged to adopt a short section of county road. During a one-year commitment, participants keep their section of road cleared of roadside litter. The Operations Division of the Public Works Department posts a sign identifying the responsible group.

Community Progress TeamsUnder the direction of the Children and Families Commission, Community Progress Teams are developing in Marion County communities to measure the positive strengths and evaluate the long-term concerns of children and families. Interested citizens may contact Children and Families Commission at 503-588-7975 to find out about their local Community Progress Team.

Master RecyclerVolunteers are trained in hands-on sessions about all aspects of recycling, reducing waste, recycled products and composting. Local and state experts present the latest information. Field trips to the Waste-to-Energy facility and a visit to local recycling businesses are included. Upon completion of training, Master Recycler volunteers share their knowledge with the community by setting up or expanding recycling programs at local schools, businesses, or apartment complexes.

ParksVolunteers assist with ongoing maintenance and one-time special projects in both developed and undeveloped county parks. Volunteers are also needed to help restore natural areas.

Master GardenerOregon State University Extension Service and Marion County offer the Master Gardener program to people with an interest in gardening and a willingness to share their knowledge with others. Volunteers receive 66 hours of special training in home horticulture. In return, the volunteers provide garden-related information to the community. Training takes place January - March each year. Applications are available in October from the OSU/Marion County Extension Office, 503-588-5301.

Marion County JailDue to the recent closing of pods and restricted hours, there are limited opportunities to volunteer at the Marion County Jail.

Victim AssistanceVolunteers can make a difference in the lives of crime victims by participating with the District Attorney's staff in providing emotional and informational support to victims of crimes. Volunteers are trained as Day Advocates to assist crime victims during normal business hours, 24-hour On-call Advocate for victims of sexual assault, and Children's Advocate to provide support and criminal justice advocacy to child victims. For more information and training dates contact Kathie Beach, 503-588-3571.

Search and RescueMarion County Search and Rescue (SAR) is comprised of six teams which provide vital assistance to the Sheriff's Office and the citizens of Marion County:

SARCOM provides communications for all search teams and support for base operations. Crew 18 allows youth at least 14 years of age to assist with ground searches for missing persons and evidence of crimes, as well as other related missions.

Jeep Patrol provides persons 21 years of age or older the opportunity to be involved in 4-wheel drive search and rescue.

The Posse provides SAR services, with the primary emphasis on the use of horses.

Extensive initial and ongoing training for search and rescue volunteers is provided by the SAR teams, with overall SAR coordination conducted by the Sheriff's Office.

Sheriff's Office Administrative Support and Other ProgramsOpportunities include clerical, receptionist, community relations, radar boards, traffic control, and data and computer duties. For more information on these volunteer opportunities, contact Doc Nelson by email at dnelson@co.marion.or.us or by phone at (503) 589-3250.

Reserve DeputyReserve deputies assist Sheriff deputies with duties ranging from guarding crime scenes to transporting prisoners. They also serve as a second officer in patrol units.

Cadet ProgramsCadets, youth 16 - 21, participate in a "hands on experience" with law enforcement that provides young people with information and experience regarding careers in the field.

Emergency Volunteer OpportunitiesDuring an emergency Marion County's volunteer needs will be posted on the Volunteer Opportunities home page. You may contact the county's volunteer coordinator now to find out more about volunteering during an emergency.

Dog ControlVolunteers can assist with the following positions;Outreach Event Assistant - Assist Dog Control staff with an informational booth at community events by handing out educational materials or selling dog licenses.Dog Walker - Walk adoptable dogs at the shelter to keep the socialized and exercised until they are adopted. Dog walkers can set their own schedule during business hours on the day(s) that work best for the volunteer.Transporter - Transport dogs locally to and from veterinarian appointments, rescue organizations and other possible locations as needed by the shelter. Visit www.co.marion.or.us/PW/DogControl/dogvolunteer for more information.

Clinic AideVolunteers can help in the Family Planning/Prenatal Clinic to assist nurses and nurse practitioners with blood pressure readings, limited lab tests, weighing and placing clients in rooms, keeping rooms stocked with supplies, and some reception backup.

New Solutions MentorMarion County Health Department New Solutions is looking for volunteer mentors to work flexible hours with a child and/or youth with mental health needs and provide support and encouragment by building a relationship through community activities. Volunteer mentors must be able to meet criminal background and driving requirements, have a personal cell phone and be committed for at least six months. The minimum age is 20 and training is provided.

4-H Club LeaderAdults to become project club, community club, and resource leaders to teach youth life skills, art, cooking, sewing, computer technology, woodworking, leather craft, horticulture, geology, and conservation. Volunteers with skills in work force preparation, leadership, community service, working with diverse cultures, and resource development are also in demand. Leaders receive training and curriculum materials and the hours are flexible. To apply or for more information call the OSU/Marion County Extension Office at 503-588-5301.

Marion County Health Department New Solutions is looking for volunteer mentors to work flexible hours with a child and/or youth with mental health needs and provide support and encouragment by building a relationship through community activities. Volunteer mentors must be able to meet criminal background and driving requirements, have a personal cell phone and be committed for at least six months. The minimum age is 20 and training is provided.

Dog Control Office AssistantVolunteers with basic computer and phone skills are needed to assist customers seeking dog licensing information by phone and in person, perform data entry, make follow-up phone calls to customers, and perform other clerical duties as needed. The schedule for the job is contingent on the volunteer's schedule and availability.